TDN RISING STARS

July 16, 2012 - DUNDALK, Race , Mdn, EUR €10,500, 7f, 14.2500

Mars (Ire), C, 2012, by Galileo (Ire)

1st Dam: Massarra (GB) (SW & GSP-Eng & GSP-Fr), by Danehill
2nd Dam: Rafha (GB), by Kris (GB)
3rd Dam: Eljazzi (Ire), by Artaius

Owner: Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith & Susan Magnier
Breeder: Massarra Syndicate
Trainer: Aidan O'Brien

There was much talk and buzz about Mars prior to this racecourse bow and the blaze-faced chestnut did not disappoint as he made virtually all to defeat stable companion The Ferryman (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) by 4 3/4 lengths. Sent to the lead from his wide draw by Joseph O'Brien after the first furlong, the 4-7 favorite was taken on by the eventual third My Rules (Ire) (Aussie Rules) after the final turn. Shaken up to assert two furlongs from home, he received two flicks with the whip and stretched out in style from there to rout his rivals. "We have been waiting a while for nice ground, and he could have started out over six furlongs," O'Brien commented. "He's a lovely horse and, although he was green, you very rarely see horses win on the bridle making the running. He has a really good attitude, is very uncomplicated and will come on for the run." The winner is a half-brother to Nayarra (Ire) (Cape Cross {Ire}), Hwt 2yo Filly-Ity, G1SW & MGSP-Ity & Eng, $222,543. Lifetime Record: 1-1-0-0, €7,245.